This November, the Design-Build Conference & Expo isn’t just offering you insight into the future of design-build and the AEC industry –– it’s handing you the blueprint. From conquering fear and mastering change to forging powerful partnerships and navigating economic shifts, this year’s General Sessions will equip you with the strategies and insights to thrive as design-build continues its profound growth.
These General Sessions provide practical tips and strategies you can immediately apply to your work, starting with overcoming fear and unlocking new opportunities for growth and wrapping up with a fun take on collaboration and finding the right design-build partners.
The Third Door Mindset: Overcoming Fear to Accelerate Growth
Bestselling author Alex Banayan kicks the conference off with insights from his book The Third Door, focusing on how breaking down barriers and overcoming fear can open new doors to success. Banayan’s perspective comes from interviews with icons like Maya Angelou and Bill Gates. A renowned keynote speaker who has presented to global giants like Apple, Google and Nike, he will share strategies that have cemented his reputation as an expert in high-performance and personal development.
The Economic Outlook with FMI CEO Chris Daum
CEO of FMI Corporation Chris Daum delivers a must-hear economic forecast for the construction industry. With market analysis and strategic insights, Daum will explore emerging trends, potential disruptions and economic factors that influence design-build. Daum’s session will provide attendees with an understanding of how to navigate economic challenges and position their organizations for growth. His expertise offers a critical look at what’s ahead and how to plan to meet it.
Flux 8: Superpowers for Thriving in Constant Change
April Rinne, futurist and author of Flux, will guide attendees through eight powerful strategies to thrive –– not just survive –– in the face of constant change. As the AEC industry evolves, embracing uncertainty is critical to staying ahead. Rinne will introduce attendees to eight “superpowers” to help individuals and organizations adapt and thrive amid rapid shifts. Named one of Forbes’s “50 Leading Female Futurists,” Rinne’s insights have guided top companies and governments around the globe.
The Design-Build Dating Game: Finding the Perfect Match
In this fun twist on collaboration, the classic TV show The Dating Game takes center stage –– with a design-build spin. A “bachelor” design-builder will be matched with three “contestant” Owners, each eager to share their perspective on working relationships. Moderated by industry veterans, this interactive session will highlight how to create successful partnerships and spark new ideas for fostering collaboration and innovation across project teams.
Beyond the Main Stage
These exciting General Sessions set the stage for the rest of the 2024 Design-Build Conference & Expo. With more than 30 sessions across five educational tracks, this event offers deep dives into the trends, best practices and innovations shaping design-build. From targeted educational tracks to networking events, there’s something for every attendee looking to sharpen their skills and expand their connections.
The conference features an array of programming designed to enhance your expertise. Among the sessions, you’ll find education on best practices, innovation, teaming and much more. DBIA’s Southwest Region will host the welcome reception Tuesday night, providing a perfect chance to unwind and network.
Student events, such as the National Design-Build Student Competition and Student Mixer, give the next generation of design-build leaders space to share their ideas, learn from seasoned professionals and connect with peers and industry experts.
The Virtual Design & Construction Leadership Exchange (VDCLEx), a half-day, pre-conference event set for Nov. 5, will offer valuable guidance for both experienced VDC professionals and those new to the field. These sessions focus on leveraging technology to drive efficiency and collaboration in design-build (separate registration; additional fees apply).
Also on Nov. 5, the foundational course in the new Collaborative Delivery Leadership Academy, “Leadership: Building a Strong Foundation,” will be offered. This course introduces the core competencies of Design-Build Done Right® leadership and is essential for anyone looking to develop their leadership skills and optimize project outcomes (separate registration; additional fees apply).
In addition to the educational sessions and networking opportunities, the 2024 Design-Build Awards Dinner & Ceremony is a highlight of the conference. What better way to celebrate the industry’s success than by honoring the nation’s best design-build projects and teams, this year’s class of DBIA Fellows and the Brunelleschi Lifetime Achievement Award winner? Design-build’s contributions to both national and international landscapes continue to inspire, and this elegant, black-tie optional evening promises to be a truly memorable event. Paid tickets are required, so be sure to reserve your seat.
Don’t miss out on the premier design-build event of the year –– secure your spot and join us in Dallas this November. Register now and get ready to gain the tools, connections and insights to drive your projects forward and lead with confidence in our rapidly evolving industry.
